Chelsea Handler, the 50-year-old comedian known for her bold humor and fearless commentary, made waves once again at the South by Southwest (SXSW) festival in Austin, Texas, during a candid conversation with journalist Kara Swisher. Handler took the stage on Saturday to discuss a range of topics, from her opinions on former President Donald Trump's administration to her thoughts on Elon Musk, the 53-year-old billionaire and SpaceX founder who has recently made headlines for his involvement in U.S. politics.
Handler, never one to shy away from controversial opinions, didn’t hold back when discussing Musk, using sharp humor and biting critique to express her dissatisfaction with both his political role and personal conduct.
The comedian’s remarks came after Swisher, in a playful moment, revealed that she had once jokingly suggested Handler date Musk. "I told her to take one for the team and date Elon Musk and bring him back," Swisher said, referencing a lighthearted exchange between the two.
But Handler, ever the comedic provocateur, wasted no time in shooting down the suggestion with a direct and humorous response. "There's a lot I would do for the country, but having sex with Elon Musk is not one of them. I can’t," Handler said, making it clear that she had no interest in dating the tech mogul.
The crowd erupted with laughter at Handler’s quick-witted response, but her comment didn’t stop there. Handler’s disdain for Musk was palpable, and she went on to express her frustration with his position of power, particularly his controversial role in government.
Musk, who is in charge of the Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE, was a topic of ridicule for Handler as she questioned how he had even come to be in such a powerful position. "I mean, did anyone vote for Elon Musk to be the president?"
Handler asked, calling attention to the fact that Musk’s influence over political matters has sparked much debate. Handler’s commentary was a combination of sarcasm and genuine frustration, highlighting her belief that Musk’s rise to power in the U.S. government is an anomaly that should not be taken lightly.
Handler’s outspoken criticism of Musk is nothing new. The comedian has been vocal about her feelings toward the SpaceX founder for years, and this latest comment continues a long-running trend of biting humor aimed at Musk.
Back in 2023, Handler referred to Musk as "repugnant," making her stance on the billionaire clear. Handler has consistently used her platform to criticize Musk’s actions, especially his foray into politics, and her remarks at SXSW were just the latest example of her using humor as a way to engage with serious political issues.
While Handler's comments were lighthearted, they also underscore a broader sentiment about the increasing influence of tech billionaires like Musk in the political sphere. As Musk continues to gain traction in government, his involvement has raised concerns for many, with critics questioning whether someone with no formal political background should be allowed to wield such power.
Handler’s jokes, however, seem to suggest that she finds Musk’s influence not just unearned, but personally offensive, particularly given his controversial public image and the various scandals surrounding him.
While Handler’s comments were laced with humor, they reflect a deeper frustration with the intersection of wealth, power, and politics in the U.S. Musk’s influence in government has been a topic of much debate, especially considering his lack of experience in public office.
Handler’s remarks about Musk’s qualifications for leadership highlight the growing concern over the increas
Handler’s questions about Musk’s qualifications and her irritation with his involvement in the Oval Office are part of a broader conversation about the role of billionaires in politics. With figures like Musk, Jeff Bezos, and Mark Zuckerberg dominating the tech industry, their growing influence over public policy and political agendas has prompted many to ask whether these figures should hold as much sway in government.
Handler’s comments are a reflection of the skepticism many people feel about the concentration of power in the hands of wealthy individuals who are not elected by the public.
In Handler’s case, her frustration with Musk seems to go beyond his political influence and into his personal behavior. Handler’s remark about his "bedroom skills" — even if made in jest — suggests a level of distaste that has been brewing for some time.
Whether she is critiquing Musk’s business decisions, his political involvement, or his public persona, Handler’s criticism continues to be one of the most outspoken and entertaining voices in Hollywood against Musk’s growing presence in the political world.
Chelsea Handler’s remarks about Elon Musk at SXSW are just one example of her ongoing commentary on the influence of tech moguls in politics. While her comments were delivered with humor, they also raise important questions about the role of billionaires in shaping public policy and the future of U.S. leadership.
Handler’s ability to mix humor with social and political commentary ensures that her voice will continue to be a significant part of the conversation surrounding wealth, power, and politics in the years to come.
As Musk continues to play an increasingly influential role in American politics, Handler’s critiques remind us of the need for public accountability and transparency. Her candid approach to discussing power and influence will continue to serve as a powerful voice against the unchecked rise of wealthy individuals in the political sphere.